Lansing - Despite Sunday's rainy weather, Lansing residents came out to celebrate America's freedom because of their Fourth of July tradition.

People came to Louis F. Adado Riverfront Park with umbrellas, raincoats and tarps in tow. For many, there was no question they were coming out to watch the patriotic festivities.

For the last decade, Lansing resident Edward Stoffer has attended the city's Fourth of July celebration, complete with fireworks and a live band.

"We enjoy the small townish atmosphere," Stoffer said. "It's a time to be very patriotic and proud of America."

Being a retired Navy officer, Stoffer said deep down this holiday means something special.

"We worked hard to form our country," he said. "This is a good celebration."

Murdock Jemerson, Lansing's Director of Parks and Recreation, said he was extremely pleased to see all the people, especially because of the holiday's weather. He said Lansing's parks are perfect for outdoor events such as the Fourth of July.

"We as a capital city do the best job we can," Jemerson said. "We are very pleased with our parks, and we are one of the best cities in the state for events like these."

Jemerson was also pleased with the Michigan Lions All-State Band, that kicked off the day's musical enjoyment.

The band averages 90 to 110 members, ranging from ninth graders to those who had recently graduated high school. The band mates are from all around the state. Besides performing Sunday, the musicians also marched in Saturday's parade.

Band Director Roger Weyersberg said community is key for a holiday like Independence Day.

"I think with the way things are going in the world right now, people are keen to their community," Weyersberg said.

Even residents who have not been in the country for very long showed up to the fireworks display. Tumi Molosiwa, a Lansing resident of five years and a native of South Africa, came out to Riverfront Park with her family.

"We aren't American, but we wanted to support the patriotism of the country," Molosiwa said. "We wanted to check out the fireworks and hear the free music."

This is the second year Molosiwa's family has come to the capital's celebrations.

More people showed up later in the night for the fireworks.

Many of Lansing's children were looking fixedly at every colorful explosion. The rain held out for the pyrotechnic show, while the Lansing Concert Band played patriotic songs, such as the "Star-Spangled Banner."

Meanwhile, even those who had to work on the holiday, such as Jemerson, who took photos for the city, were in good spirits all evening.

"Being an American, I'm happy to be celebrating freedom on the Fourth of July."